An innovative Islington project bringing together young offenders and older people receiving care services celebrated its 5th anniversary this month (September 2008).<br><br>Islington Council's Youth Offending Team manages the reparation project which has been a popular fixture at New Park Day Centre, Highbury New Park, N5.<br><br>The young people make bird boxes, bird feeders and garden window boxes for older people to use at the day centre - bringing a welcome slice of nature and a dose of optimism to some 50 day centre users.<br><br>Cllr John Gilbert, Executive Member for Health and Adult Social Care, Islington Council said:<br><br>"In many communities the young and the old don't mix despite living next door to each other - this can lead to fear and misunderstanding.<br><br>"But bringing the generations together like this can help break down these barriers and that makes our communities stronger.<br><br>"At the New Park Day Centre young and the old benefit and it's great to see users responding so positively about the garden improvements these young people are making to bring a bit of nature and colour into their lives."<br><br>ENDS
Page Last Updated: 17 December 2009